If you're on a whistle-stop visit to the Spanish capital, then try this one-day itinerary. It starts with a walking tour of the historic core, with a glimpse of some big sights and suggests where to get a taste of local cuisine and where to go for a night on the town – if you've still got the energy.

This route is around 7km/4.5miles: or about 90mins of steady walking.

Morning

To get your bearings, head for the central Puerta del Sol, take a wander around Plaza Mayor and into the maze of ancient streets that lie behind it before heading off for the Palacio Real and the Galería de Colecciones Reales.

Having sampled the opulent splendour of the royal palace, stop off for a coffee and a spot of people watching at the opulent Café de Oriente.